In the NHL, it’s not an everyday occurrence to witness a star player donning a different jersey. Blockbuster trades, particularly in the salary cap era, are rare and memorable when they do happen. In this piece, we revisit the five most historical and significant trades of the past decade. For avid hockey enthusiasts and bet365 nz players alike, these trades not only shape the destiny of franchises but also add an element of excitement and anticipation to the game.
Bruins trade Seguin to Stars (July 4, 2013)
Stars acquire: F Tyler Seguin, F Rich Peverley, D Ryan Button, D Joe Morrow
Bruins acquire: F Loui Eriksson, F Reilly Smith, F Matt Fraser
At the age of 21, Tyler Seguin had already emerged as a budding star in Boston. However, the Bruins had reservations about his compatibility with their team culture. They raised concerns about his off-ice habits, ultimately leading to his trade to the Dallas Stars. Seguin has since become one of the NHL’s top scorers, surpassing any Bruin in goals and points.
Canucks deal Luongo back to Panthers (March 4, 2014)
Panthers acquire: G Roberto Luongo, F Steven Anthony
Canucks acquire: G Jacob Markstrom, F Shawn Matthias
Roberto Luongo’s return to the Florida Panthers marked the end of a tumultuous chapter. With a young Cory Schneider performing exceptionally, the Canucks had two top-tier goalies and tough decisions to make. Luongo’s departure was hastened by the team’s postseason struggles and his subsequent trade request.
Senators trade Karlsson to Sharks (September 13, 2018)
Sharks acquire: D Erik Karlsson, F Francis Perron, F Josh Norris, D Dylan DeMelo, 1st-rd pick (2020), 2nd-rd pick (2019)
Senators acquire: F Chris Tierney, F Rudolfs Balcers
Erik Karlsson, the Senators’ homegrown franchise talent, left Ottawa 16 months after leading the team to the Eastern Conference Final. His contract situation and the Senators’ rebuild plans made his departure inevitable. The San Jose Sharks, with their cup-contending status, proved to be the right fit.
Canadiens, Predators swap Star Blue-Liners (June 29, 2016)
Canadiens acquire: D Shea Weber
Predators acquire: D P.K. Subban
In just 23 minutes, the NHL landscape shifted dramatically. Subban, an electrifying and captivating presence who truly embodied the essence of the Canadiens, saw himself traded to the Nashville Predators, with Shea Weber coming the other way in the exchange.
Subban’s playing style and his larger-than-life persona often diverged from the expectations of the Canadiens’ front office, ultimately culminating in his departure from Montreal. Subban thrived in Nashville, while Weber found new life with the Canadiens.
Oilers trade Taylor Hall for Adam Larsson (June 29, 2016)
Oilers acquire: D Adam Larsson
Devils acquire: F Taylor Hall
The most remarkable trade of the decade also led to one of the most memorable hockey tweets ever. Taylor Hall’s impressive achievements with the Devils, notably clinching the prestigious Hart Trophy, left Oilers fans deeply reflective, pondering the different trajectory their team could have followed.
Although Larsson proved to be a reliable addition, there’s no denying the Oilers’ sense of missed opportunity in not having an MVP-caliber player like Hall in their lineup, alongside the talents of Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl.
